From Rabilu Abubakar Gombe
Gombe State government has commenced the conversion of Jewel Suites into offices for 14 emirs and chiefs, alongside the construction of a modern secretariat for the State Council of Emirs and Chiefs.
Director-General of Gombe State Joint Projects Development Agency, GSJPDA, Mahmoud Yusuf, who disclosed this while briefing journalists, said the Jewel Suites project had reached 70 percent completion, while the new secretariat would include a conference hall and fully furnished offices for all traditional rulers.
According to him, both projects underscore government’s commitment to strengthen the traditional institution as a key partner in governance, peace building and grassroots development.
Beyond the council secretariat, Yusuf said the agency had executed several projects, including the construction of 260 market stalls in Kaltungo, 66 new shops with landscaping in Funakaye, reconstruction of two village heads palaces and the full renovation of the emir’s palace in Nafada.
He added that more than 5,000 solar-powered streetlights had been installed across 10 local government areas, with plans underway to establish a mini solar power grid in Balanga Local Government Area.
Since its creation in 2020, Yusuf noted that GSJPDA had delivered over 80 percent of its mandate.
He urged future administrations to sustain the agency’s initiatives, describing them as crucial to ensuring equitable development across the state.
